UCONN’s Dr. Cato Laurencin to speak at Widener

Dr. Cato T. Laurencin, university professor at the University of Connecticut.

The Widener University School of Engineering will host its 2017 Distinguished Lecture Series featuring Dr. Cato T. Laurencin,
university professor at the University of Connecticut, on Tuesday, April 4 at 4 p.m.
in Alumni Auditorium.

Dr. Cato T. Laurencin is the Albert and Wilda Van Dusen distinguished endowed professor
of orthopedic surgery at the University of Connecticut. At UCONN, he also serves as
professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, materials science and engineering,
and biomedical engineering and directs the Institute for Regenerative Engineering
and the Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center.

On April 4, Laurencin will share insight on “regenerative engineering” – the convergence
of advanced materials science, stem cell science, physics, developmental biology,
and clinical transition. His research has identified that through convergence of such
technologies grand challenges are possible. Laurencin’s areas of study are particularly
around musculoskeletal tissue regeneration using polymeric nanofiber systems.

“It is an honor to have Dr. Laurencin, who has been recognized nationally and internationally
for his work in musculoskeletal tissue regeneration, speak to our students,” Dr. Fred
Akl, dean of the School of Engineering, said.

Laurencin is an expert in biomaterials, nanotechnology, stem cell science, and regenerative
engineering. He serves as editor-in-chief of Regenerative Engineering and Translational Medicine, and sits on the editorial boards of a number of journals. He is an elected member
of the National Academy of Medicine, the National Academy of Engineering, and a Fellow
of the National Academy of Inventors. Throughout his career, Laurencin has been recognized
internationally by various medical journals for his research. He received the Presidential
Faculty Fellow Award from Former President Bill Clinton, and the Presidential Award
for Excellence in Science, Math and Engineering Mentoring from Former President Barack
Obama.

Those interested in attending the 2017 Distinguished Lecture Series must reserve a
spot online. For more information contact the School of Engineering call 610-499-1294.

The event is free and is open to students, alumni, and engineering enthusiasts in
the community.

Widener University is a private, metropolitan university that connects curricula to
social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal
attention, leadership development and experiential learning are key components of
the Widener experience. A comprehensive doctorate-granting university, Widener comprises
eight schools and colleges that offer liberal arts and sciences, professional and
pre-professional curricula leading to associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral
degrees. Visit the university website, www.widener.edu.